US20050200126A1 - Connecting device for fluid conduits - Google Patents
Connecting device for fluid conduits Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050200126A1 US20050200126A1 US11/003,710 US371004A US2005200126A1 US 20050200126 A1 US20050200126 A1 US 20050200126A1 US 371004 A US371004 A US 371004A US 2005200126 A1 US2005200126 A1 US 2005200126A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- sleeve
- line
- fluid conduits
- section
- connecting device
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 43
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 62
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 62
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 62
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims description 16
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 claims description 11
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 11
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000002991 molded plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920002457 flexible plastic Polymers 0.000 description 5
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004026 adhesive bonding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000016213 coffee Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000013353 coffee beverage Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000002788 crimping Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000806 elastomer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000015114 espresso Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000002349 favourable effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000006698 induction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007493 shaping process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003313 weakening effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L47/00—Connecting arrangements or other fittings specially adapted to be made of plastics or to be used with pipes made of plastics
- F16L47/20—Connecting arrangements or other fittings specially adapted to be made of plastics or to be used with pipes made of plastics based principally on specific properties of plastics
- F16L47/24—Connecting arrangements or other fittings specially adapted to be made of plastics or to be used with pipes made of plastics based principally on specific properties of plastics for joints between metal and plastics pipes
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L37/00—Couplings of the quick-acting type
- F16L37/08—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members
- F16L37/12—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members using hooks, pawls, or other movable or insertable locking members
- F16L37/1225—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members using hooks, pawls, or other movable or insertable locking members using a retaining member the extremities of which, e.g. in the form of a U, engage behind a shoulder of both parts
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L37/00—Couplings of the quick-acting type
- F16L37/08—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members
- F16L37/12—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members using hooks, pawls, or other movable or insertable locking members
- F16L37/14—Joints secured by inserting between mating surfaces an element, e.g. a piece of wire, a pin, a chain
- F16L37/142—Joints secured by inserting between mating surfaces an element, e.g. a piece of wire, a pin, a chain where the securing element is inserted tangentially
- F16L37/144—Joints secured by inserting between mating surfaces an element, e.g. a piece of wire, a pin, a chain where the securing element is inserted tangentially the securing element being U-shaped
Definitions
- the invention relates to a connecting device for fluid conduits.
- the connecting device for fluid conduits is designed with at least one connecting element that is suitable for tightly connecting two lines to one another.
- a tight connection is understood to mean a pressure-tight connection which in particular prevents the discharge of liquid under pressure.
- the connecting device for fluid conduits is provided in particular in coffee and espresso machines.
- hose and tube connections are produced by adhesive bonding, for example.
- such connections involve connection procedures that require precise timing, in particular for the curing of an adhesive.
- the finished connections are not easily detachable.
- the prior art also includes a tube connection having a clamping sleeve comprising two sleeve half-shells which screw into one another and whose flange-like projections are tightened together by screws (DE-A-198 37 803).
- the clamping sleeve overlaps two tube ends, a first tube end having an annular bulge and a second profiled tube end having a section of larger diameter.
- due to the screwing and tightening the clamping sleeve is cumbersome to install, and is not very well suited for connecting two hose ends.
- a metal ring is used as a coupling sleeve, from which internal hook-shaped projections are formed which externally engage with the hose end as a first line (U.S. Pat. No. 3,637,240).
- the hook-shaped projections are anchored in the plastic line thus softened.
- nicks are created in the hose end, thus weakening it.
- a connecting sleeve On the other side, a connecting sleeve has an internal borehole in which the hose end can engage, in addition to an expanded internal borehole into which the metal ring on the end section of the first line fits.
- a sealing O-ring made of rubber or an elastomer is inserted which contacts the front annular end face of the metal ring but which does not simultaneously contact the annular shoulder in the connecting sleeve.
- a seal can be produced on an internal peripheral side and on the external peripheral side of the metal ring only when the O-ring is tightly fitted to both the first line and the internal periphery of the connecting sleeve.
- an essentially U-shaped clamp is used which is inserted into lateral boreholes in the connecting sleeve, namely, behind the connecting sleeve that is inserted into the connecting sleeve together with the end section of the first line.
- the object of the present invention is to provide a connecting device for fluid conduits that functions using connecting elements that are easily manufactured, with connection procedures that are quickly performed, while at the same time providing a good external seal for the lines connected to one another.
- the connecting device for fluid conduits is distinguished by versatile applications, and, if necessary, line connections made with same are detachable.
- the object is achieved by placing on an end section of a first line a coupling sleeve having an annular end face on the front side, i.e., external to the connection side, that has an annular shape next to a first line end, and having a rear, annular end face situated at a distance from the first line end, that makes positive friction fit contact.
- the inside of the coupling sleeve has a simple, continuous cylindrical peripheral wall that is placed, for example crimped, on a correspondingly continuous end section of the first line, which similarly has no bead-like expansion.
- a line may be understood to be a flexible line or a hose, in particular made of plastic, or a rigid line or line section made of plastic, or a metal tube.
- a connecting sleeve that projects from one end of a second line to be connected to the first line is suitable for receiving the end section of the first line together with the coupling sleeve.
- an annular shoulder is provided which together with the front annular end face of the coupling sleeve performs a sealing function.
- a simple O-ring may be used which is enclosed with a tight fit between the annular shoulder of the connecting sleeve and the front annular end face of the coupling sleeve.
- the O-ring may also create a good seal on its outer periphery in the connecting sleeve and on its inner periphery on the end section of the first line.
- the mutually contacting walls of the coupling sleeve in addition to the connecting sleeve are essentially cylindrical according to claim 3 . These allow a reliable connection that is independent of the rotational position of the coupling sleeve and the connecting sleeve.
- the connecting sleeve is an injection-molded plastic part, which is favorable for manufacturing.
- the connecting sleeve together with the end of the second line may be formed from plastic, it also being possible for the second line to be an outlet or inlet for another integral structural element.
- the second line is preferably a rigid plastic line.
- the connecting sleeve it is also possible for the connecting sleeve to be made of metal, and to be soldered onto an end section of a metal tube as a second line.
- the coupling sleeve which is mounted on the end section of the first line has a simple ring-shaped design, and is preferably made of metal.
- the ring may also be injection molded as a rigid plastic part.
- An alternative embodiment of the connecting sleeve according to claim 8 has a first section that receives an end section of the first line in addition to a second section that is narrower than the first section and projects from one end of the first line.
- the front, annular end face is thus formed as a sealing surface by means of a shoulder between the first section and the second section.
- the inside diameter of the first section of the coupling sleeve corresponds to the outer diameter of the first line.
- the diameter of the second section is smaller than that of the first section.
- the second section projects beyond the end of the first line in the installed state, so that this end forms a guide for the coupling sleeve in the receiving connecting sleeve.
- a support tube may be inserted into the end section of the first line which is able to support the end section when the coupling sleeve is pushed on.
- At least two connecting sleeves according to claim 10 may be formed in a common connecting part which comprises at least one line section connecting the connecting sleeves.
- the common connecting part may be designed with three connecting sleeves which are connected to one another in the connecting part via a branched line section.
- the latter connecting part may thus be referred to as a three-sided connecting part.
- one of the connecting sleeves may also be an integral component of another structural element, such as a continuous flow heater, for ex ample.
- the locking element is designed as a spring clip that extends through an internally laterally open receiving slot in the connecting sleeve and comes to rest against the rear annular end face of the inserted coupling sleeve. If necessary, the spring clip may be removed from the receiving slot to detach the connection of the connecting sleeve to the coupling sleeve. Likewise, the spring clip is reusable.
- the receiving slot in the connecting sleeve is also laterally open to the outside. This allows for uncomplicated fabrication of the connecting sleeve and easier handling of the spring clip for locking or loosening the fluid line connection.
- the connecting sleeve it is also possible for the connecting sleeve to be laterally closed to the outside, so that the spring clip essentially goes all the way into the receiving slot and is held therein, even when forces are exerted on the spring clip from internal pressure in the hoses, which in the worst-case scenario tend to laterally push the spring clip from the receiving slot.
- the locking element according to claim 15 may be designed as connected half-shells that fold together. On their face ends the half-shells have ridges with recesses, so that the coupling sleeve and the connecting sleeve which receives the coupling sleeve are enclosed between the folded-together, interlocked half-shells and the ridges. By releasing the interlocking elements, the half-shells may once again be removed from the line ends with the connecting sleeve and the coupling sleeve to loosen the connection of the two line ends. Likewise, the half-shells are reusable.
- both half-shells and the elements molded thereon are made of plastic.
- the half-shells are captively connected to one another as a single piece by means of a film hinge.
- This locking element may be economically manufactured and installed, since the relative position of the half-shells is fixed in place on the hinge side, and the half-shells need be connected only on the opposite side by interlocking elements in order to enclose the line ends.
- FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of the connecting device for fluid conduits as an exploded view
- FIG. 2 shows the connecting device for fluid conduits according to FIG. 1 , but completely assembled as a sectional drawing;
- FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of the connecting device for fluid conduits as a variant of the first embodiment, as an exploded view
- FIG. 4 shows a third embodiment of the connecting device for fluid conduits as an exploded view
- FIG. 5 shows the completely assembled connecting device for fluid conduits according to FIG. 4 , as a longitudinal section
- FIG. 6 shows a detail of the third embodiment, namely, a locking element having half-shells in the folded-up state in a front view
- FIG. 7 shows a fourth embodiment of the connecting device for fluid conduits in the assembled state, in a sectional view.
- FIG. 1 shows in detail a flexible plastic line as a first line 1 , together with a rigid plastic line as a second line 2 which is part of a structural element 3 , a continuous flow heater, for example (only partially shown), for connecting to a connecting device for fluid conduits.
- an inserted support tube 6 is located on the connection-side end of the flexible plastic line in the vicinity of the coupling sleeve 2 .
- connection of lines 1 and 2 is achieved by the connecting sleeve 5 , into which lines 1 , 2 are inserted.
- an O-ring 7 is provided which contacts a connection-side end face of the coupling sleeve 4 (not designated by a reference number) and a shoulder (likewise not designated by a reference number) at which the second line 2 ends and the connecting sleeve merges into a section of larger inner diameter which receives the coupling sleeve 4 .
- the section of the first line 1 situated at the connection-side end of the coupling sleeve 4 is thereby pushed through the O-ring.
- the connection of the two lines 1 and 2 is locked by a spring clip 8 or 9 , respectively, which in each case is pushed through a pair of receiving slots oppositely situated in the connecting sleeve until the spring clip comes to rest against the end face of the coupling sleeve 4 facing away from the connection-side end.
- the receiving slots are laterally closed off in an expanded section of the connecting sleeve 5 ; an opening 10 only on the top side, visible in FIG. 1 , is located at right angles between the two actual receiving slots, not shown.
- FIG. 1 the embodiment according to FIG.
- the receiving slots 11 a and 11 b are laterally open to the outside, thereby simplifying the shaping of the coupling sleeve 12 .
- the spring clip 8 is situated inside the connecting sleeve 5
- the spring clip 9 is situated partially outside the connecting sleeve 12 .
- the third embodiment of the connecting device for fluid conduits according to FIGS. 4 and 5 is used to connect a first line 1 , which once again is a flexible plastic line, to a second line 13 , which in this instance is designed as a rigid metal line or tube. Accordingly, a coupling sleeve 4 and a support tube 6 are situated on an end section of the first line 1 in a manner similar to that described for FIGS. 1 and 2 .
- a connecting sleeve 14 in this instance is made of metal, and once again has a first section 15 of relatively large diameter which is suitable for receiving an end section of the first line 1 , in addition to a second section 16 of smaller diameter into which the second line 13 or tube is inserted in order to be soldered to the second section.
- a shoulder is formed on which the O-ring 7 comes to rest when the front section of the line 1 with the O-ring is pushed into the connecting sleeve until the O-ring 7 presses tightly against the front end face of the coupling sleeve 4 and the shoulder between sections 15 , 16 .
- the direction in which the first line 1 is pushed is indicated by an arrow 18 a in FIG. 4 , for example.
- half-shell 18 has spring tabs 20 , 21 as interlocking elements which fit into slots 22 , 23 . Additional spring tabs, not shown in FIG. 4 , may be received by slots 24 , 25 . The slots thus have a locking function. As can be seen from FIG.
- the second line 13 once again may be a component of a structural element, not illustrated.
- half-shells 30 , 31 shown from the front, are provided as injection-molded parts together with a film hinge 32 , and for mutual locking in the folded-down state (see arrow 18 d ) therefore have fewer spring tabs, e.g. 33 , and slots, e.g. 34 , which can engage with one another to securely enclose a connecting sleeve and a coupling sleeve.
- the connecting device for fluid conduits comprises a connecting part 35 from which three connecting sleeves 36 , 37 , 38 are formed.
- the common connecting part is thus suitable for receiving three lines which can communicate with one another in the essentially T-shaped connecting part.
- variants of the common connecting part can be provided for receiving only two lines, which can be connected to one another in elongated form or at right angles.
- the rigid line may once again be a metal tube, a continuous flow heater, for example.
- the rigid line is provided with a soldered-on coupling sleeve 42 at its connection point to the connecting part 35 , and comprises a first section 43 which receives an end section of the line 41 , and a second, end-side section 44 of smaller diameter which can be inserted into a central line section of the connecting part 35 . Between the first section 43 and the second section 44 of the coupling sleeve 42 a shoulder is formed which supports a sealing O-ring 45 .
- the O-ring 45 rests on a shoulder of the connecting sleeve 36 or a connecting sleeve section of the connecting part 35 , at which point the connecting sleeve section merges into the line section 46 of the connecting part 35 , which has a smaller diameter than the outwardly oriented connecting sleeve section.
- a spring clamp 47 is used which on one side rests in a receiving slot, not designated by a reference number, in the connecting sleeve 36 and on the other side pushes against a rear, in FIG. 7 an upper, end face of the coupling sleeve 42 .
- the connecting sleeves 37 , 38 or connecting sleeve sections are shaped in the same way as the connecting sleeve 36 for the connecting part 35 , and are used for connecting the two flexible lines 39 , 40 to the connecting part 35 , for which purpose end sections of the lines 39 , 40 are provided with coupling sleeves and support tubes, not designated by reference numbers, as in the embodiments according to FIGS. 1 through 5 .
- Tightly fitting O-rings 48 , 49 are enclosed between the end-side, i.e., connection-side, end faces of the coupling sleeves and the shoulders of the connecting sleeves 37 , 38 . In this instance as well, the end sections of the lines 39 , 40 are held in their inserted position by spring clamps 50 , 51 .
- the system of the connecting device for fluid conduits thus comprises only a few components, which may be combined with one another in numerous ways, namely: coupling sleeves, optionally with support tubes, connecting sleeves, or O-rings for sealing, and spring clamps or interlockable half-shells for locking the connection.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Quick-Acting Or Multi-Walled Pipe Joints (AREA)
Abstract
A connecting device for fluid conduits having at least one connecting element that is suitable for tightly connecting two line ends to one another, wherein a coupling sleeve (4) having a front annular end face and a rear annular end face makes positive friction fit contact with an end section of a first line (1). A connecting sleeve (5, 14) projects from one end of a second line (2, 13), and inside the connecting sleeve an annular shoulder is formed that is suitable for receiving the end section of the first line (1) together with the coupling sleeve (4). A locking element is detachably mounted on the connecting sleeve (5, 14) which contacts the rear end face of the coupling sleeve (4) inserted into the connecting sleeve.
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The invention relates to a connecting device for fluid conduits.
- 2. Prior Art
- Generically, the connecting device for fluid conduits is designed with at least one connecting element that is suitable for tightly connecting two lines to one another.
- A tight connection is understood to mean a pressure-tight connection which in particular prevents the discharge of liquid under pressure.
- The connecting device for fluid conduits is provided in particular in coffee and espresso machines.
- According to the prior art, hose and tube connections are produced by adhesive bonding, for example. However, such connections involve connection procedures that require precise timing, in particular for the curing of an adhesive. The finished connections are not easily detachable.
- Other, detachable connections are achieved, for example, using coupling nuts and cooperating threaded connecting parts. These connection arrangements require parts that are expensive to manufacture, in addition to time-intensive installation procedures.
- The prior art also includes a tube connection having a clamping sleeve comprising two sleeve half-shells which screw into one another and whose flange-like projections are tightened together by screws (DE-A-198 37 803). The clamping sleeve overlaps two tube ends, a first tube end having an annular bulge and a second profiled tube end having a section of larger diameter. In addition, due to the screwing and tightening the clamping sleeve is cumbersome to install, and is not very well suited for connecting two hose ends.
- Other tube connectors of the prior art are used only for connecting a specialized tube end to at least one annularly expanded wall (
DE 41 42 640, U.S. Pat. No. 6,086,118). - In one known connecting device for fluid conduits of the aforementioned generic type to which a hose end can be connected, a metal ring is used as a coupling sleeve, from which internal hook-shaped projections are formed which externally engage with the hose end as a first line (U.S. Pat. No. 3,637,240). In particular by eddy-current induction in, and accompanying heating of, the metal ring, the hook-shaped projections are anchored in the plastic line thus softened. However, nicks are created in the hose end, thus weakening it. On the other side, a connecting sleeve has an internal borehole in which the hose end can engage, in addition to an expanded internal borehole into which the metal ring on the end section of the first line fits. In a space in the connecting sleeve, between an annular shoulder formed between the internal borehole and the expanded internal borehole, and a front annular front face of the metal ring, a sealing O-ring made of rubber or an elastomer is inserted which contacts the front annular end face of the metal ring but which does not simultaneously contact the annular shoulder in the connecting sleeve. Thus, a seal can be produced on an internal peripheral side and on the external peripheral side of the metal ring only when the O-ring is tightly fitted to both the first line and the internal periphery of the connecting sleeve. For installation, an essentially U-shaped clamp is used which is inserted into lateral boreholes in the connecting sleeve, namely, behind the connecting sleeve that is inserted into the connecting sleeve together with the end section of the first line.
- The object of the present invention, therefore, is to provide a connecting device for fluid conduits that functions using connecting elements that are easily manufactured, with connection procedures that are quickly performed, while at the same time providing a good external seal for the lines connected to one another. The connecting device for fluid conduits is distinguished by versatile applications, and, if necessary, line connections made with same are detachable.
- This object is achieved by a connecting device for fluid conduits having the features stated in the characterizing part of
claim 1. - The object is achieved by placing on an end section of a first line a coupling sleeve having an annular end face on the front side, i.e., external to the connection side, that has an annular shape next to a first line end, and having a rear, annular end face situated at a distance from the first line end, that makes positive friction fit contact. For this purpose, the inside of the coupling sleeve has a simple, continuous cylindrical peripheral wall that is placed, for example crimped, on a correspondingly continuous end section of the first line, which similarly has no bead-like expansion. In this respect, a line may be understood to be a flexible line or a hose, in particular made of plastic, or a rigid line or line section made of plastic, or a metal tube. A connecting sleeve that projects from one end of a second line to be connected to the first line is suitable for receiving the end section of the first line together with the coupling sleeve.
- Inside the connecting sleeve, at the end of the second line or of the line section forming the second line, an annular shoulder is provided which together with the front annular end face of the coupling sleeve performs a sealing function. By detachably placing a locking element on the connecting sleeve, which locking element in the interlocked state of the coupling sleeve and the connecting sleeve contacts the rear end face of the coupling sleeve, in the inventive design of the fluid connection arrangement, in particular for the interior of the connecting sleeve and the length and position of the coupling sleeve on the end section of the first line, the front annular end face of the coupling sleeve directly or—via a sealing element, indirectly—comes to rest on the annular shoulder of the connecting sleeve. It is thus possible to achieve a fluid connection arrangement that provides a reliable seal, even at high internal pressures.
- As a sealing element, in particular according to
claim 2, a simple O-ring may be used which is enclosed with a tight fit between the annular shoulder of the connecting sleeve and the front annular end face of the coupling sleeve. By pressing the O-ring between the annular shoulder of the connecting sleeve and the front annular end face of the coupling sleeve, the O-ring may also create a good seal on its outer periphery in the connecting sleeve and on its inner periphery on the end section of the first line. - In this manner, it is possible to achieve a tight fit of the coupling sleeve on the end section of the first line.
- The mutually contacting walls of the coupling sleeve in addition to the connecting sleeve are essentially cylindrical according to claim 3. These allow a reliable connection that is independent of the rotational position of the coupling sleeve and the connecting sleeve.
- Further advantageous features of the connecting device for fluid conduits are stated in
claims 4 through 16. - According to
claim 4, the connecting sleeve is an injection-molded plastic part, which is favorable for manufacturing. - To further streamline manufacture, according to
claim 5, the connecting sleeve together with the end of the second line may be formed from plastic, it also being possible for the second line to be an outlet or inlet for another integral structural element. In this case, the second line is preferably a rigid plastic line. - However, according to
claim 6, it is also possible for the connecting sleeve to be made of metal, and to be soldered onto an end section of a metal tube as a second line. - The coupling sleeve which is mounted on the end section of the first line has a simple ring-shaped design, and is preferably made of metal. However, the ring may also be injection molded as a rigid plastic part.
- An alternative embodiment of the connecting sleeve according to
claim 8 has a first section that receives an end section of the first line in addition to a second section that is narrower than the first section and projects from one end of the first line. The front, annular end face is thus formed as a sealing surface by means of a shoulder between the first section and the second section. The inside diameter of the first section of the coupling sleeve corresponds to the outer diameter of the first line. The diameter of the second section is smaller than that of the first section. The second section projects beyond the end of the first line in the installed state, so that this end forms a guide for the coupling sleeve in the receiving connecting sleeve. - Furthermore, according to
claim 9, a support tube may be inserted into the end section of the first line which is able to support the end section when the coupling sleeve is pushed on. - By use of the form features of the aforementioned connecting device for fluid conduits, at least two connecting sleeves according to
claim 10 may be formed in a common connecting part which comprises at least one line section connecting the connecting sleeves. In particular, the common connecting part may be designed with three connecting sleeves which are connected to one another in the connecting part via a branched line section. The latter connecting part may thus be referred to as a three-sided connecting part. As mentioned above, one of the connecting sleeves may also be an integral component of another structural element, such as a continuous flow heater, for ex ample. - Furthermore, two embodiments of the locking element have been developed which are used to hold the coupling sleeve in its desired position when inserted into the connecting sleeve:
- In a first embodiment according to
claim 12, the locking element is designed as a spring clip that extends through an internally laterally open receiving slot in the connecting sleeve and comes to rest against the rear annular end face of the inserted coupling sleeve. If necessary, the spring clip may be removed from the receiving slot to detach the connection of the connecting sleeve to the coupling sleeve. Likewise, the spring clip is reusable. - In one variant, the receiving slot in the connecting sleeve is also laterally open to the outside. This allows for uncomplicated fabrication of the connecting sleeve and easier handling of the spring clip for locking or loosening the fluid line connection.
- However, according to
claim 14, it is also possible for the connecting sleeve to be laterally closed to the outside, so that the spring clip essentially goes all the way into the receiving slot and is held therein, even when forces are exerted on the spring clip from internal pressure in the hoses, which in the worst-case scenario tend to laterally push the spring clip from the receiving slot. - Alternatively, the locking element according to claim 15 may be designed as connected half-shells that fold together. On their face ends the half-shells have ridges with recesses, so that the coupling sleeve and the connecting sleeve which receives the coupling sleeve are enclosed between the folded-together, interlocked half-shells and the ridges. By releasing the interlocking elements, the half-shells may once again be removed from the line ends with the connecting sleeve and the coupling sleeve to loosen the connection of the two line ends. Likewise, the half-shells are reusable.
- According to
claim 16, both half-shells and the elements molded thereon are made of plastic. - It is particularly advantageous for the half-shells to be captively connected to one another as a single piece by means of a film hinge. This locking element may be economically manufactured and installed, since the relative position of the half-shells is fixed in place on the hinge side, and the half-shells need be connected only on the opposite side by interlocking elements in order to enclose the line ends.
- All of the variants of the connecting device for fluid conduits according to the invention are suitable for quick assembly.
-
FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of the connecting device for fluid conduits as an exploded view; -
FIG. 2 shows the connecting device for fluid conduits according toFIG. 1 , but completely assembled as a sectional drawing; -
FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of the connecting device for fluid conduits as a variant of the first embodiment, as an exploded view; -
FIG. 4 shows a third embodiment of the connecting device for fluid conduits as an exploded view; -
FIG. 5 shows the completely assembled connecting device for fluid conduits according toFIG. 4 , as a longitudinal section; -
FIG. 6 shows a detail of the third embodiment, namely, a locking element having half-shells in the folded-up state in a front view; and -
FIG. 7 shows a fourth embodiment of the connecting device for fluid conduits in the assembled state, in a sectional view. - Corresponding parts in the various embodiments are provided with the same reference numbers in all figures.
- Exemplary embodiments of the connecting device for fluid conduits according to the invention are described below, with reference to the drawings comprising seven figures, as follows:
-
FIG. 1 shows in detail a flexible plastic line as afirst line 1, together with a rigid plastic line as asecond line 2 which is part of a structural element 3, a continuous flow heater, for example (only partially shown), for connecting to a connecting device for fluid conduits. - For this purpose, a
coupling sleeve 4 designed as a metal ring, which is used to fix thefirst line 1 in place in a connectingsleeve 5, is crimped onto the flexible plastic line orfirst line 1, just in front of its connection-side end. To prevent the flexible plastic line asfirst line 1 from being deformed by the crimping process and to ensure a secure seating of thecoupling sleeve 2, an insertedsupport tube 6 is located on the connection-side end of the flexible plastic line in the vicinity of thecoupling sleeve 2. - The connection of
lines sleeve 5, into whichlines sleeve 5 an O-ring 7 is provided which contacts a connection-side end face of the coupling sleeve 4 (not designated by a reference number) and a shoulder (likewise not designated by a reference number) at which thesecond line 2 ends and the connecting sleeve merges into a section of larger inner diameter which receives thecoupling sleeve 4. The section of thefirst line 1 situated at the connection-side end of thecoupling sleeve 4 is thereby pushed through the O-ring. - In the first embodiment according to
FIGS. 1 and 2 and in the second embodiment according toFIG. 3 , the connection of the twolines spring clip coupling sleeve 4 facing away from the connection-side end. In the first embodiment according toFIGS. 1 and 2 , the receiving slots are laterally closed off in an expanded section of the connectingsleeve 5; anopening 10 only on the top side, visible inFIG. 1 , is located at right angles between the two actual receiving slots, not shown. On the other hand, in the embodiment according toFIG. 3 , the receiving slots 11 a and 11 b are laterally open to the outside, thereby simplifying the shaping of thecoupling sleeve 12. As a result, thespring clip 8 is situated inside the connectingsleeve 5, and thespring clip 9 is situated partially outside the connectingsleeve 12. - The third embodiment of the connecting device for fluid conduits according to
FIGS. 4 and 5 is used to connect afirst line 1, which once again is a flexible plastic line, to asecond line 13, which in this instance is designed as a rigid metal line or tube. Accordingly, acoupling sleeve 4 and asupport tube 6 are situated on an end section of thefirst line 1 in a manner similar to that described forFIGS. 1 and 2 . A connectingsleeve 14 in this instance is made of metal, and once again has afirst section 15 of relatively large diameter which is suitable for receiving an end section of thefirst line 1, in addition to asecond section 16 of smaller diameter into which thesecond line 13 or tube is inserted in order to be soldered to the second section. As can be seen fromFIG. 5 , between the first section and the second section a shoulder is formed on which the O-ring 7 comes to rest when the front section of theline 1 with the O-ring is pushed into the connecting sleeve until the O-ring 7 presses tightly against the front end face of thecoupling sleeve 4 and the shoulder betweensections first line 1 is pushed is indicated by anarrow 18 a inFIG. 4 , for example. - The pushed-
together lines shells coupling sleeve 4 and connectingsleeve 14. For this purpose, half-shell 18 hasspring tabs slots FIG. 4 , may be received byslots FIG. 5 , when the half-shells coupling sleeve 4 and connectingsleeve 14. - It should be noted that the
second line 13 once again may be a component of a structural element, not illustrated. - In
FIG. 6 , half-shells film hinge 32, and for mutual locking in the folded-down state (seearrow 18 d) therefore have fewer spring tabs, e.g. 33, and slots, e.g. 34, which can engage with one another to securely enclose a connecting sleeve and a coupling sleeve. - One particularly interesting embodiment of the connecting device for fluid conduits is illustrated in
FIG. 7 in which the connecting device for fluid conduits comprises a connectingpart 35 from which three connectingsleeves - In the three-sided embodiment of the connecting
part 35, according toFIG. 7 twoflexible lines rigid line 41 are connected to one another. The rigid line may once again be a metal tube, a continuous flow heater, for example. - The rigid line is provided with a soldered-on
coupling sleeve 42 at its connection point to the connectingpart 35, and comprises afirst section 43 which receives an end section of theline 41, and a second, end-side section 44 of smaller diameter which can be inserted into a central line section of the connectingpart 35. Between thefirst section 43 and thesecond section 44 of the coupling sleeve 42 a shoulder is formed which supports a sealing O-ring 45. On its other side, the O-ring 45 rests on a shoulder of the connectingsleeve 36 or a connecting sleeve section of the connectingpart 35, at which point the connecting sleeve section merges into theline section 46 of the connectingpart 35, which has a smaller diameter than the outwardly oriented connecting sleeve section. For locking therigid line 41 inserted into the connectingpart 35 to the connecting part, and therefore also to the other lines opening into the connecting part, a spring clamp 47 is used which on one side rests in a receiving slot, not designated by a reference number, in the connectingsleeve 36 and on the other side pushes against a rear, inFIG. 7 an upper, end face of thecoupling sleeve 42. - The connecting
sleeves sleeve 36 for the connectingpart 35, and are used for connecting the twoflexible lines part 35, for which purpose end sections of thelines FIGS. 1 through 5 . Tightly fitting O-rings sleeves lines - The system of the connecting device for fluid conduits thus comprises only a few components, which may be combined with one another in numerous ways, namely: coupling sleeves, optionally with support tubes, connecting sleeves, or O-rings for sealing, and spring clamps or interlockable half-shells for locking the connection.
Claims (16)
1. A connecting device for fluid conduits having at least one connecting element that is suitable for tightly connecting two line ends to one another, wherein
a coupling sleeve (4) having a front annular end face and a rear annular end face makes positive friction fit contact with an end section of a first line (1),
a connecting sleeve (5, 14) projects from one end of a second line (2, 13), and inside the connecting sleeve an annular shoulder is formed that is suitable for receiving the end section of the first line (1) together with the coupling sleeve (4), and
a locking element can be detachably mounted on the connecting sleeve (5, 14) which contacts the rear end face of the coupling sleeve (4) inserted into the connecting sleeve, characterized in that
the inside of the coupling sleeve (4) has a continuous cylindrical peripheral wall and is placed on a continuous cylindrical end section of the first line (1), and
the front annular end face of the coupling sleeve (4) indirectly or directly makes a sealing contact on the annular shoulder of the connecting sleeve (5, 14).
2. The connecting device for fluid conduits according to claim 1 , characterized in that an O-ring (7) is enclosed between the annular shoulder of the connecting sleeve (5, 14) and the front annular end face of the coupling sleeve (4) in such a way that the O-ring (7) on one side contacts the front annular end face of the coupling sleeve (4) and on the other side contacts the annular shoulder of the connecting sleeve (5, 14).
3. The connecting device for fluid conduits according to at least one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the exterior of the coupling sleeve (4) and the interior of the connecting sleeve (5, 14) are essentially cylindrical.
4. The connecting device for fluid conduits according to at least one of claims 1 through 3, characterized in that the connecting sleeve (5) is an injection-molded plastic part.
5. The connecting device for fluid conduits according to claim 4 , characterized in that the connecting sleeve (5) together with the end of the second line (2) are formed from plastic.
6. The connecting device for fluid conduits according to at least one of claims 1 through 3, characterized in that a metal connecting sleeve (14) that is soldered onto an end section of a metal tube as a second line (13).
7. The connecting device for fluid conduits according to at least one of claims 1 through 6, characterized in that the coupling sleeve (4) is designed as a ring which is tightly mounted on the end section of the first line (1), at a distance from one end thereof.
8. The connecting device for fluid conduits according to at least one of claims 1 through 6, characterized in that an additional coupling sleeve (42) has a first section (43) which receives an end section of the first line (41), and also has a second section (44) that is narrower than the first section and that projects from one end of the first line (41), the front annular end face of the coupling sleeve being formed by a shoulder between the first section (43) and the second section (44).
9. The connecting device for fluid conduits according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a support tube (6) is inserted in the end section of the first line (1) in such a way that the end section is enclosed between the support tube (6) and at least one section of the coupling sleeve (4).
10. The connecting device for fluid conduits according to at least one of claims 1 through 4 and claims 6 through 9, characterized in that at least two connecting sleeves (36, 37, 38) are formed in a common connecting part (35) which comprises at least one line section (46) that connects the connecting sleeves.
11. The connecting device for fluid conduits according to at least one of claims 1 through 4 and claims 6 through 9, characterized in that the connecting sleeve (5) is an integral component of a structural element (3).
12. The connecting device for fluid conduits according to at least one of claims 1 through 11, characterized in that the locking element is designed as a spring clamp (8, 9, 47, 50, 51) that extends through an internally laterally open receiving slot (10, 11 a, 11 b) in the connecting sleeve (5, 12) and comes to rest against the rear annular end face of the inserted coupling sleeve (4, 42).
13. The connecting device for fluid conduits according to claim 12 , characterized in that the receiving slot (11 a, 11 b) in the connecting sleeve (12) is also laterally open to the outside.
14. The connecting device for fluid conduits according to claim 12 , characterized in that the receiving slot (10) in the connecting sleeve (5) is laterally closed to the outside.
15. The connecting device for fluid conduits according to at least one of claims 1 through 11, characterized in that
the locking element is designed as mutually connectable half-shells (18, 19, 30, 31) having interlocking elements, and
on their end faces the half-shells have ridges (26, 27, 28, 29) with recesses, so that the coupling sleeve (4) and the connecting sleeve (14) which receives the coupling sleeve are enclosed between the folded-together, mutually connected half-shells (18, 19) and the ridges (26-29).
16. The connecting device for fluid conduits according to claim 15 , characterized in that the two half-shells (30, 31) are made of plastic and are connected as a single piece by means of a film hinge (32).
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
CH20318857.8(U) | 2003-12-05 | ||
DE20318857U DE20318857U1 (en) | 2003-12-05 | 2003-12-05 | Fluid line connection assembly |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20050200126A1 true US20050200126A1 (en) | 2005-09-15 |
Family
ID=34442552
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/003,710 Abandoned US20050200126A1 (en) | 2003-12-05 | 2004-12-03 | Connecting device for fluid conduits |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20050200126A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1538384A1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE20318857U1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20140124689A1 (en) * | 2011-07-20 | 2014-05-08 | Seko S.P.A. | Hydraulic cross connection provided with security quick fasteners, related kit of accessories, and related hydraulic system |
EP3112737A1 (en) * | 2015-07-03 | 2017-01-04 | MANN+HUMMEL GmbH | Coupling arrangement with coupling bodies and coupling bracket for pipes |
US20240019039A1 (en) * | 2022-07-13 | 2024-01-18 | As America, Inc. | Rough-In Valve |
Families Citing this family (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE202004020093U1 (en) * | 2004-12-29 | 2005-03-03 | Eugster/Frismag Ag | Fluid line connection assembly |
KR100704573B1 (en) * | 2005-10-11 | 2007-04-06 | 기아자동차주식회사 | Connection structure of heater core and pipe |
DE102007026848A1 (en) | 2007-06-11 | 2008-12-24 | BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH | Plug element, hose coupling and hose coupling arrangement, in particular for use in hot beverage preparation devices |
DE102008027794A1 (en) * | 2008-06-11 | 2009-12-17 | Honeywell Technologies Sarl | Device for attaching a gas line to a gas valve |
EP2340750A1 (en) | 2010-01-04 | 2011-07-06 | Nestec S.A. | Coupling arrangement for tubular sections in particular in a beverage preparation machine |
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- 2003-12-05 DE DE20318857U patent/DE20318857U1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
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- 2004-12-06 EP EP04028841A patent/EP1538384A1/en not_active Withdrawn
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Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20140124689A1 (en) * | 2011-07-20 | 2014-05-08 | Seko S.P.A. | Hydraulic cross connection provided with security quick fasteners, related kit of accessories, and related hydraulic system |
US9249913B2 (en) * | 2011-07-20 | 2016-02-02 | Seko S.P.A. | Hydraulic cross connection provided with security quick fasteners, related kit of accessories, and related hydraulic system |
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US20240019039A1 (en) * | 2022-07-13 | 2024-01-18 | As America, Inc. | Rough-In Valve |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP1538384A1 (en) | 2005-06-08 |
DE20318857U1 (en) | 2005-04-14 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: EUGSTER/FRISMAG AG, SWITZERLAND Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:FISCHER, DANIEL;REEL/FRAME:016591/0061 Effective date: 20050509 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |